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Many of us pet lovers know what it’s like to have a dog that inevitably gets old. Their lifespan is so much shorter than ours that some people experience it several times in a lifetime. When your dog becomes elderly, it is a time to realize that your time together is limited and make the very best of it. Dogs become part of our families, so with that in mind, here are some things you can do to to care for your elderly dog with love.

Comfort

One thing dogs and people have in common is that getting old can be challenging. We’re both prone to all sorts of conditions more frequently as we age. Many people love to sleep with their pets. While a young small dog can jump up on a bed without a problem, an older small dog probably won’t be quite as agile. You can actually buy stairs that lead up to your bed so your little friend can always get on the bed and have a nap. Make it a point to spend more time petting and doing things your dog likes. This will comfort him/her through the trials of aging and reduce your stress levels as well. Dogs love routines. They know what time you are going to arrive home every day before they ever hear you car in the driveway. Greet them as lovingly as they greet you when return home. Make the absolute best of this time, because these times are what you remember when your furry friend heads over the rainbow bridge.

Activities

You may not be able to teach an old dog a new trick but it doesn’t mean they can’t play and have fun. If your furry friend still enjoys walks, keep them going. This can actually ease the discomfort of aging that dogs experience by keeping them from getting stiff due to inactivity. Take him/her to a dog park, throw a ball around, or any game your dog enjoys. Older dogs don’t lose their love for a good game of fetch so play regularly.

Nutrition

As dogs get older their nutritional needs change as well. Find a good dog food made for seniors that your vet recommends. There are also supplements for dogs that taste like treats and help keep your old friend healthy.

Tasty dog treats are one of the things that your dog look forward to every day. By giving him treats, you are able to show him your love and affection. Also, giving your dogs delicious treats is a great way to motivate your dog during training sessions. Dog treats are easy to make especially when you do it yourself. What’s more, you can make sure that these treats are healthy and nutritious.

Why Give your Dog Sweet Potato Rings

One of the healthiest and most nutritious treats that you can make for your dog is sweet potato rings. Sweet potatoes are sure to boost your dog’s muscle health since they contain lots of amino acids. They are also rich in antioxidants. Above all, they can improve your dog’s digestion and even contain essential vitamins such as vitamins A, B6 and C as well as copper and iron.

How to Make Sweet Potato Rings

To make sweet potato rings, you will need the following:

1 medium sweet potato

1 egg, beaten

1 tbsp of flaxseed meal

1 3/4 cups of whole wheat flour

Parchment paper

Cookie sheet

To start, preheat the oven by 350 degrees. Grease a baking sheet lightly or line with parchment paper. Next, boil the sweet potato over high heat. Puree the sweet potato using a blender or any food processor. Mix the flour well with flax seed together with the egg and sweet potato. Make O-shaped rings using dough. Place all the rings on the cookie sheet and using a pastry brush, lightly brush them with egg. Lastly, bake them for 28 minutes until golden brown. Once cooled, serve and give your dog these mouth-watering treats.

Your dog is sure to love this healthy and delicious treat and he will love it more because it is naturally made by a loving pet owner like you. If you like, you can also hand some of these treats to your friends’ dogs.

Whatever season it is, it’s always fun to go to the beach. And what could be more exciting than bringing your pet with you? Luckily, you can always take your dog with you when going to the beach. Give your canine buddy a special treat and have a great time together at the most beautiful and most captivating beaches in the country.

Cannon Beach at Oregon

If fresh air and plenty of exercise is what you’re looking for, this beach is certainly the place to be. The space is wide enough for your dog and he will surely love the sand and the giant rock formations. However, your dog needs to be leashed and his voice must be under control.

Fort de Soto Park at St. Petersburg, Florida

Your dog will have more freedom here since your dog will be allowed to roam around a certain portion of the beach without a leash. If your dog is a small breed dog, he can still play safely with the other dogs since they have a separate fence away from the large ones.

Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area at Manasquan, New Jersey

Like most beaches, your dog is very much welcome here but with his leash on. Nonetheless, you’ll still have a great time watching the panoramic view of this beach.

The Original Dog Beach at San Diego, California

Dogs of all sizes, colors, shapes and breeds are welcome in this beach. This is actually why it’s called ”The Original Dog Beach.” What’s more fun is that your pet can roam around the beach without his leash.

Oak Island Beaches at Wilmington, North Carolina

This beach is very family-friendly and at the same time dog-friendly. Your pet will surely enjoy hanging around the beach while bathing in the sea and playing with natural toys in the water. In the end, it’s not just your pet that will have fun; you will also love staying in this beach as it will help you relax and have quality time with your beloved pet.

There is an underlying reason as to why Fido is barking and you have to find it out. He may be feeling out of place, is hurt, or he may be telling you a message. You’ll need to be patient and observant so you can determine what your puppy’s behavior is telling you.

2. Use sound.

Your dog may be barking because of some frightening sound he hears in his environment including other people’s voice or other dogs barking around. Block these out by using music that will make him calm down. You can also use his favorite cartoon show like Scooby Doo so his focus will be taken away from the noise.

3. Remove the stimulus.

Your dog may be barking because he is getting a view of other dogs passing by your house through your windows. If that’s the case, maybe it’s time to put some curtains or blinds. You also have the option of keeping your dog out of the problem room. In addition, you can keep him out of the places where he’s not allowed through the gates of your home. If your dog’s reason for barking is loneliness due to being isolated, maybe it’s time you bring him to doggie daycare or get him a new friend.

4. Evaluate your own expectations.

You may have brought your dog home because he is super cute and you’re thinking and hoping that he will play with the kids when they’re awake and in the mood for playing and sleep for the rest of the day. But your expectations may not be met.

Let us tell you a story. Fido started barking all night long when everybody was in their bed sleeping. Fido was bored and feeling anxious and what he wanted to do is spend time with his dog parents and family. So when he woke everyone up and his family can’t handle his excessive barking any longer, he was let out in the backyard even if it’s still the middle of the night. He barked restlessly awakening the entire neighborhood. The results were a sleep-deprived and angry family and sleep-deprived and really unhappy neighbors. Because of this, Fido’s family is considering getting rid of him.

From this story, we learn that if you don’t have the time to spend with a dog and you can’t give Fido the attention he needs from you, then don’t adopt him just because he’s cute. You’ll only do more harm than good so be sure to have realistic expectations when adopting a pup.

5. Ask for help from a professional.

If all else fails, seek the help of a professional in dealing with your dog’s disappointing behavior. Dog trainers are experts in this field and will be happy to work with you and Fido. Ask around from dog loving families and friends or inquire from local pet stores. They may know reliable dog trainers and can recommend them to you.

Important Note on Bark Collars

Bark collars do not work for the following reasons.

Dogs build a resistance to the shock induced by bark collars or to the squirt coming from the collars’ citronella. When you remove the collar to start training Fido using treats as reinforcement, you may have a hard time due to his motivation threshold being higher than normal.

Bark collars do not address the reasons why your dog may be barking, including boredom, loneliness, anxiety, and others.

When other dogs in the area bark loudly, it can cause the collar to squirt citronella or shock your dog. When you speak loudly or when you shout, it can also do the same thing, which doesn’t benefit your dog in any way.

It’s always been great bringing puppies to different places because it is an enjoyable experience going out. You can have fun together without having to visit the same areas all the time. Remember that no matter the season, there is always something nice to do. All you have to do is check out different events that cater to puppies and their owners, such as the ones listed here.

Dog Days of Summer

Happening in Ocean Pines, MD on July 18, this benefit event is free and perfect for different people who love hanging out with their dogs. They also have different exhibits and demonstrations to entice more and more people to visit and help raise funds for the Worcester County Humane Society.

More information is available at http://www.dogfriendlyoc.com/event/dog-days-of-summer

Yappy Hour

At the Ritz-Carlton of Dana Point, CA, you can find the perfect venue for find food and drinks that can be enjoyed by both you and your dog. Going to this event can greatly help certain organizations such as Canine Companions for Independence.

If you want to learn even more, you can visit http://www.bringfido.com/event/17027/

Pup Night at PNC Park

Pup Night is a great place to enjoy baseball with your dogs. Finally, here is an event to put together your baseball passion with your love of dogs. Ticket sales will all be remitted to local shelters, so enjoy the Pittsburgh Pirates at the PNC Park with all of your friends.

Learn more information from the Pittsburgh Pirates website – http://pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com/pit/ticketing/pup_night_form.jsp

Bark in the Park

New York is another city where sports lovers can meld their athleticism with their passion for dogs. The Dodgers will be playing the Mets and at the same time, they will be endorsing the North Shore Animal League America. This organization is one of the largest animal shelters on the planet that practice no killing.

Learn more at http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/nym/ticketing/group_offers.jsp?group+bark_in_the_park

Walk, Run & Wag 5k

Marathons don’t have to strictly be for people. This Denver, Co event by International Hearing Dog, Inc. is a great way to get your exercise fix while helping out a wonderful cause.

It’s official. Fido’s breath smells so unpleasant; it’s enough to put everyone to sleep. So as a concerned dog parent, you do everything within your power to curb the bad breath including flossing his teeth routinely, feeding him with a nutritious diet daily, and bringing him to your vet for check-ups whenever there’s a need.

You’ve taken all of these steps. However, the bad breath stayed and now you’re frustrated and worried. But don’t you fret because NuVet is here to assist you to ensure your dilemma with your dog’s bad breath is put to an end. To help you get started, we’ve put together this simple guide which consists of six helpful tips to help end your woes with your dog’s bad breath. Read on to learn more.

1.Good nutrition

It’s sad to encounter undernourished canines knowing that they may be experiencing bad breath, too since they do not receive adequate nutrition. So make sure it doesn’t happen to your own Fido by giving him a high quality diet.

2.Mouthwash

Like dog parents, Fido has toothpaste and mouthwash just made for him, too. There are a variety of doggie mouthwash available in the market nowadays and you may find it labeled as liquid tartar remover. To use mouthwash to address your dog’s bad breath, just pour a portion and mix to your dog’s water. Whenever he drinks from his water, tartar and plaque are removed from his teeth. The result is a healthier mouth and teeth for Fido.

3.Chlorhexidine

Dog chews and mouth sprays contain chlorhexidine, an antiseptic which is not only safe for Fido but also helps to keep his breath fresh. You can get dog products consisting of chlorhexidine at any local pet supply stores or by going online. If you’d like to know more about how chlorhexidine can help you, discuss your concerns with Fido’s vet.

4.Clean his dish

Routine washing of Fido’s dishes for water and food is a must to prevent bacteria build up on his dishes and to prevent them from entering his mouth. One study showed that about half of dog parents do not clean their furry friend’s dish routinely. If you’re one of them, buy a dish which can be safely cleaned in a dishwasher to make things easier for you. This way, you fulfill your duty as a dog parent.

5.Chews

There are a lot of different chew products sold at pet supply stores everywhere. A good example is Greenies, an interesting chew product that contains charcoal which helps in preventing bad breath in dogs. Buy one and have Fido chew it to keep his breath smelling fresh and clean.

6.Rawhide

Rawhide also helps in curbing your dog’s bad breath. Choose those which are high quality and if you need help in picking the right one for your dog, your vet will surely be able to help you. In addition, when your dog eats rawhide, there are situations when it can get stuck on his digestive track. So be sure to be with him and watch him while he eats rawhide.

You’ll be hard pressed to find a person who doesn’t love fruit salad. Almost everybody loves it and the great news is you can now have a serving of fruit salad with your favorite four-legged companion. All you have to do is gather a number of easy-to-find ingredients and follow some simple steps in preparing a healthy and scrumptious meal that your puppy is sure to enjoy anytime. You’ll be glad to know that you can enjoy consuming this recipe as much as your puppy would which makes it a perfect snack you and your favorite canine companion can share together. This will definitely save you time and effort!

To top this all, know that this recipe consists of vitamins and minerals essential for your canine’s health. It also contains fiber, which your dog needs for a healthy digestive tract and blackberries, which have a rich concentration of antioxidants essential in fighting free radicals. It is highly suggested to buy and use organic fruits for an extra healthy boost. On the other hand, if you are pressed for time, frozen fruits are also great!

Ingredients:

½ cup of yogurt, plain

½ of sliced banana

½ granny smith apple, seeded and cored

¼ cup of fresh strawberries, cut in half

¼ cup of blackberries

Step 1: Prepare the fruits by washing them thoroughly with clean water.

Step 2: Serve the fruit in your canine’s favorite dish.

Step 3: Spoon in yogurt.

Step 4: Watch and be amazed as your dog gobbles the food up!

Step 5: Make another bowl of salad you can enjoy yourself.

This summer time, show you furry friend how much he is loved and adored by taking the time to whip up and prepare this healthy and tasty salad both of you can enjoy.

Who says that you have to do all your cleaning and list checking in the spring? We think that fall is also a perfectly good time to go through your doggie’s environment and supplies to make sure that everything is in tip-top shape and in working order. By doing so, you are ensuring that your pooch has a safe and healthy environment in which to live and play. Keep reading to learn other ways you can make sure your home is dog friendly.

Keep your yard tidy – A thick layer of leaves can cover up materials that can potentially be harmful to your pup like sharp sticks, stones or other debris that can get blown around and covered up during brisk, fall winds. Raking up leaves and other yard waste on a regular basis can keep your yard free of sharp objects and other things your pup might step on that could cause injury.

Make sure your Tulip and other plant bulbs have been completely buriedand stored safely – Late summer and early fall are popular times to get those tulip and other bulbs in the ground which later go on to produce beautiful springtime blooms. Unfortunately, if ingested by your pup these bulbs can be harmful, which is why it is important to make sure they are completely buried. Better yet, do your planting away from your pup either by keeping him in the house or in another part of the yard when you are doing your gardening. Dogs that like to dig should be watched when outside to prevent them from potentially digging up your bulbs. If you suspect your dog may have gotten at your flower bulbs, contact your vet.

Stock up on food and supplements – keeping your dog’s food and supplements on hand and in good supply will prevent you from having to go out in unexpected snow storm or other inclement weather that fall can be notorious for. Nobody likes to dash to their car for an unplanned trip to the pet supply store during a cold rainstorm because Fido is out of his favorite kibble.

Make sure all your doggie supplies are in working order – this includes your pup’s doggie bed. Check to make sure it does not have any holes in it where stuffing can come out and possibly be eaten by your dog. While you’re at it, throw your pup’s bed in the washing machine and give it a good wash. Also, make sure doggie toys are in working order as damaged toys can easily fall apart and be ingested by your dog, which can potentially be harmful. If you notice a few toys that need to be replaced why not add some squeaker toys and bones to Fido’s Santa wish list.

Check your tie-outs and leashes – During the summer months, which can be hot, damp, and dry or a combination of all three summertime weather conditions, it is possible for your dog’s leash and outdoor tie-outs to take a beating. Check for rust and other signs of weather or environmental damage. A rusty leash or tie-out clip can easily break and potentially release your dog, which could lead to your pooch getting out of your yard and even lost.

Add a new healthy habit – The fall is a great time to start a new healthy routine like adding another walk to your dog’s day or beginning a high quality vitamin supplement. You and your dog will appreciate feeling healthier and happier.

If you have ever seen Austin Powers, the hilarious comedy starring Mike Myers playing the duel lead role of Austin Powers and the nefarious Dr. Evil, then you are undoubtedly familiar with Dr. Evil’s show-stealing cat, Mr. Bigglesworth. Some of you may not know but Mr. Bigglesworth hails from a distinctive breed of cat called the sphynx. In an effort to educate our readers on this sweet-natured and often called dog-like cat, here are 9 interesting facts about the sphynx.

1. Not really exotic

Despite their name and their uncanny resemblance to the cats seen in ancient Egyptian artwork and artifacts, the sphynx actually originated in Canada, which is pretty interesting considering their lack of fur.

2. Not actually hairless

Even though they appear to be hairless, the sphynx actually has a downy, peach-fuzz like coating covering their body.

3. Higher maintenance

One might think that because these particular felines lack an abundance of fur that they are much easier to maintain. The opposite is actually the case. The sphynx requires regular bathing to keep it’s skin from getting overly oily, which most sphynx owners will admit can leave a residue on clothes, bedding and furniture. Their ears also require frequent cleaning to prevent waxy buildup. Also, their web-like feet and dexterous claws require cleaning to prevent dirt and other buildup from accumulating.

4. Good nutrition is necessary to maintain skin health

A high quality supplement can provide a sphynx with a valuable source of nutrients to keep its unique skin healthy and looking its best.

5. Coloring

The color of a sphynx’s cat’s skin is actually the color its fur would be if it had fur.

6. Heat-seeking

It will probably come as little surprise but the sphynx is partial to warmth and can often be found seeking it out. Computers, heaters and other cozy spots are their favorites. You may even find a sphynx snuggling up under the covers. In colder weather a sphynx will usually appreciate a sweater.

7. Big eaters

The sphynx has a reputation for having a voracious appetite and loves to eat. This is because the sphynx has a very active metabolism, which causes the cat to become hungry quite often.

8. Very lovable

Ask any sphynx owner and they will tell you that you won’t find a more lovable, playful cat that enjoys frequent snuggling.

9. Don’t forget the sunblock

Make sure to stock up on cat-friendly sunblock to help keep your sphynx from getting sunburned. Because it loves to be warm the sphynx can often be found basking in whatever sunny spot they can find. As a result, it is not uncommon for a sphynx to experience sunburn, which can be prevented with good sun protection. Don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian when it comes to your kitty and good skin care.

So there’s nobody you would rather spend time with then your four-legged, canine buddy. And with that being the case, maybe you are getting a tad bored with your usual jaunt at the dog park or perhaps your regular stroll on the doggie beach is getting a bit tired? Well, we are happy to tell you there are a lot of fun things you can do with your pooch this July. Keep reading to see if one of these activities is in a town

If liver-flavored water cocktails are more your speed, then you and Fido are going to love Yappy Hour at the Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel. While you enjoy refreshing human beverages and hors d’oeuvres your pup will get to enjoy gourmet doggie biscuits in addition to canoodling with other canines. Even better, money raised from this event will go to Canine Companions for Independence. To learn more visit: http://www.bringfido.com/event/17027/

July 11th – Denver, Co: Walk, Run & Wag 5k

This event is sponsored by the International Hearing Dog, Inc. whose job it is to train dogs and place them, free of charge, with individuals who require assistance. All dogs come from shelters. This walk-run will raise money to continue this wonderful service.

This event benefits the Worcester County Humane Society. The admission is free and will showcase vendors who specialize in all things dog. Doggie demonstrations as well as the chance to win prizes will be keep this event hopping. Local hotels will even offer reduced-rate rooms for out of town guests.

If you find yourself in the Big Apple, why not have some fun helping to raise money for the biggest no-kill animal shelter on the planet? You will get to see the Mets play the Dodgers while supporting the North Shore Animal League America.